Pieces Given Up For Peace In Kenya

Former world-class runner Tegla Loroupe is now a spokeswoman for peace. Photo: PhotoRun.net

Former world-class runner Tegla Loroupe is now a spokeswoman for peace. Photo: PhotoRun.net

World-class runner Tegla Loroupe’s Peace Race was a huge success.

In Kenya, more than 700 warriors have reformed and surrendered 38 guns to the government following peace efforts by the world marathon ace Tegla Loroupe. Loroupe, a multiple world champion in the half marathon, had organized the 8th edition of the Tegla Peace Race held over the weekend at Makutano Stadium West Pokot, Kenya.

The Kenyan government lauded these efforts.

“We recognise the contributions by Dr Loroupe to bring peace among warring communities,” said West Pokot official Allan Macharia. “”Incidents of rustling have dropped and warriors have surrendered illegal guns to the Government. These efforts will definitely promote development in the region.”

Loroupe kicked off the anti-rustling campaigns eight years ago through Tegla Loroupe Peace Foundation (TLPF) targeting pastoralists in Kenya, Uganda and South Sudan. She called on the three countries to support her foundation achieve its objectives.

“My foundation is determined to achieve peace to enable people fight poverty. I urge the governments to support my agenda by providing funds,” she said.

Duncan Larkin

Duncan Larkin is a freelance journalist and author who’s been covering the sport of running for over a decade. He’s run 2:32 in the marathon and won the Himalayan 100-Mile Stage Race in 2007. He wrote the book RUN SIMPLE, and coaches runners of all abilities.
You can learn more about him here: http://roadsmillslaps.tumblr.com/about